The Museum Library holds a fine natural and cultural history collection. It dates from 1898, and has developed specialised collections in the areas of zoology, taxonomy, anthropology, foreign ethnology, archaeology, earth and environmental sciences and museology.

The Museum Library maintains a core collection of key reference works that support scientific collection and exhibition research undertaken at the Museum, as well as assisting with displays and promotion in the galleries.

The collection has grown steadily and includes purchases, exchanges and donations of some rare scientific works. It exists as a vital research tool for Museum staff and is also a source of specialised publications for other researchers.

Subjects covered with a state, national and, where appropriate, international emphasis are:

anthropology

archaeology

world cultures

geology

mineralogy

museum studies and display methods

palaeontology

natural history

zoology.

The library includes monographs and scientific journals, many dating from the 19th century and early 20th century. There are old and rare books published prior to 1900, including volumes of natural history, Australian Aboriginal studies and exploration of Australia.